The government, led by Luís Montenegro, has unveiled the State Budget proposal for 2026 (OE2026), promising increased income for pensioners. The government’s dedicated budget website outlines a continued commitment to supporting the elderly and vulnerable, with measures aimed at boosting their income.
The budget document emphasizes: “We believe in an inclusive country that particularly protects the most vulnerable. OE26 establishes a clear commitment to improving the income and living conditions of our elderly and ensuring their access to a quality national health system.”
Highlighted in the budget are three key initiatives:
- The Solidarity Supplement for the Elderly (CSI) is set to rise by €40 in 2026, reaching €670, moving towards ensuring no pensioner lives with an income below €870 by 2029.
- This increase will be accompanied by the adjustment of pensions, supplements, and other social benefits, representing a total investment of €700 million.
- Additionally, in 2026, the possibility of an extraordinary supplement for pensioners will be assessed depending on budgetary execution.
Solidarity Supplement for the Elderly: Eligibility Criteria
The Solidarity Supplement for the Elderly (CSI) is a monthly financial support for low-income elderly individuals aged 66 years and 7 months or older, residing in Portugal. According to Social Security, eligibility requirements include:
- Having resources below the CSI threshold.
- If married or in a partnership for over two years: Combined couple resources must not exceed €13,244 annually, with the individual’s resources below or equal to €7,568 annually.
- If not married or in a partnership for over two years: Individual resources must not exceed €7,568 annually.
- Having resided in Portugal for at least six consecutive years at the time of application.
- Being a recipient of an Old Age or Survivors Pension, aged above the standard pension access age of the general social security regime, or receiving an Invalidity Pension and not entitled to the Inclusion Social Benefit.
- Not having access to the Social Pension due to income above the limit of €209 for an individual or €313.50 for a couple.
- Authorizing Social Security to access fiscal and banking information for both the applicant and their spouse or partner.
- Being willing to apply for other social security benefits for which they are eligible.
